Oregon senator a top target of Democrats in 2008

By BRAD CAIN

The Associated Press

SALEM, Ore. -- National Democrats have made it plain that one of their top targets in the 2008 Senate election will be Oregon Republican Sen. Gordon Smith, who has been reaching out more to moderate voters of late.

But Smith could also face potential trouble within his own party at home.

There are rumors that Smith might draw a primary challenge from the party's right wing. A national group that promotes fiscal conservatism is making noises about possibly bankrolling such an effort.>>